SCOTTISH-based entrepreneurs who have excelled in business over the past year, against a difficult economic backdrop, are being sought for recognition by a prestigious awards scheme.

The Entrepreneurial Exchange, in association with Deloitte and media partner The Herald, is seeking the cream of Scotland's entrepreneurial talent as its hotly-contested annual awards open for nominations.

Focusing on two titles – Entrepreneur of the Year and Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year – the awards recognise the innovation and drive of growth-oriented entrepreneurs.

Colin Robertson, chief executive of Falkirk-based bus and coach manufacturer Alexander Dennis, was named Entrepreneur of the Year at last year's event. Keith Wight, founder and chief executive of sensor design and manufacturing company SST Sensing, was named last year's Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year.

Mike McGregor, partner and head of entrepreneurial business for Deloitte in Scotland and a member of the judging panel for the 2012 awards, said: "My experience is that the country is a hive of successful, ambitious business owners, but that they often choose to operate below the radar."

Entrepreneurial Exchange chief executive John Anderson said: "Candidates in the past have been resourceful business builders whose drive and determination have helped them reach commercial success."

The entry form can be downloaded from the Entrepreneurial Exchange website (www.entrepreneurial-exchange.co.uk) and must be completed and returned by August 24. Winners will be announced, from a shortlist of three finalists in each category, at the Entrepreneur of the Year dinner at the Hilton Hotel in Glasgow on November 29.